features 2. On the Cover The Harbaugh Years

14. Legacy Of Leaders Western Alums Rise to Presidential Status

24. The Mills Twins Young entrepreneurs find success at WKU’s Center for Research and departments Development 10 Campus News

19 Campaign Headquarters

22 Western History

28 Athletics

33 Alumni Association

36 Chapter News

37 Best Kept Secret

39 Class Notes

48 Commentary Photo by Joe Imel The HARBAUGH YEARS

By Kyle Hightower

Forty-one years ago, Jack Harbaugh es, that Canton, Ohio. YThe one that is home to the National Football began his career raking leaves in the League Hall of Fame and dances daily in the minds of today’s NFL players and coaches who backyard of football excellence. hope to be immortalized there one day. Canton is to football what the North Pole is to children – a Mecca. The year was 1961. It is probably the one place on the planet where a professional sport’s greatest moments can truly be admired by both young and old generations alike. The place was Canton Elementary In 1961, Harbaugh was the poster child for the young generation of the day. School in Canton, Ohio. He was just an infant coach then, a newborn 22- year-old barely a few steps removed from his crib at Bowling Green State University in Ohio.

2 Western Kentucky University Photo by Sheryl Hagan-Booth At the time, Harbaugh’s resume´ was much too slim to garner a head coaching job, so he clung to his ambitions and bach- elor’s degree from BGSU in those early years. He knew he would get his chance at immortality one day. “I never really had any hobbies besides football other than my wife, my family and my grand- kids,” Harbaugh said. “Working never really excited me. And, what I’ve done has not been work. I would have gladly paid them to let me coach to let me do it if I thought it would pay the bills at home because coach- ing is what I love to do.” But, after 41 years of trudging through a coaching career that has included stops at some of college football’s most renowned programs, only recently have people started to revel in the “What this championship has journey that Harbaugh has made done is show me how the game as time has inched on. of football has allowed me and Only now after winning his my wife and family to experience first national championship is he the good people that have been a receiving the acclaim for the job part of our lives. It staggered he has done cultivating not only me.” athletes, but capable young men To know Jack Harbaugh is to as well. know the meaning of the word He knows because they let him humble. know by burying him with To know what he has meant to phone calls and letters in the Western Kentucky University’s weeks since he could hardly football program, perhaps it is express his championship joy in best left to Wes Strader, the long- words standing under a shower time Hilltopper radio play-by- of praise in Chattanooga. play man who called so many of And even as Harbaugh decided his games. to bid farewell to Western – “He means everything, period,” resigning in February – he is per- Strader said of Harbaugh. “For haps closer now than ever to the past 14 years, that man has realizing the dreams that began been everything to Western foot- Photo by Joe Imel in Canton so many years ago. ball.” “I guess the word is ‘blessed,’ And for 14 seasons, Jack but I’m not sure I know what the Harbaugh never once talked of right word is,” Harbaugh said.

4 Western Kentucky University ing the art of smashing heads things have been mementos like and pounding bodies. It only pictures that could use Windex awakened him to the symbols he and old, tattered signs clinging to has collected along the way. rusty, stale thumbtacks. “If I hadn’t been part of this Pictures of guys like Don team and championship, it Nehlen, his former coach and wouldn’t have been crushing. A mentor at Bowling Green trophy is just a State and for- symbol,” mer Michigan Harbaugh said. coach Bo “But if it were Schembechler not for this Working never whom experience really excited me. Harbaugh (winning a coached under title) I would “ for seven years And what I’ve done have went to in the 1970s.

Photo by Sheryl Hagan-Booth Photo by Sheryl my grave not has not been work. Signs whisper- knowing the ing of extinc- magnitude I would have gladly tion like “Those these past 41 who stay will years have had paid them to let me be champions” in people I’ve coach to let me do after the pro- been privileged gram nearly to know.” it if I thought it went south in Not one tro- the early 1990s phy used to sit would pay the bills and catchy bat- on the shelf tle cries from behind Jack at home because seasons passed Harbaugh’s coaching is what I such as the desk inside the 2002 “FINISH” Western foot- love to do. that was ridden ball office. all the way to Not one. championship That space ” glory. was instead “If he reserved for the symbols the 63- (Harbaugh) hadn’t dug in heels year-old Western coach collected the way he did, it would’ve Photo by Joe Imel in his 41-year journey to what died,” said legendary former everyone kept telling him was Hilltoppers’ coach and athletic the pinnacle of his coaching director Jimmy Feix in regards to career. the program nearly going under. But, the truth is, old football Feix is one of only two persons championships, only building coaches like Harbaugh don’t to have his jersey immortalized champions. need trophies. They only need outside of L.T. Smith Stadium. That didn’t even change in the things that remind them of The other is one of Harbaugh’s December when the 63-year-old where they’ve been in hopes that recruits and former players – coach captured the elusive it will help them figure out where Willie Taggart. national crown that had eluded to go next. Taggart, who was maybe his grasps for 41 years of coach- And, for Harbaugh, those Western’s best-ever quarterback

5 Alumni Spring 2003 Photo by Joe Imel

and the NCAA’s all-time career that game he has received proba- rushing leader at the position, is bly triple that in letters of con- currently the Toppers’ offensive gratulation. coordinator. “Seeing those former players in “I look up to him a lot,” the stands just showed me how Taggart said. “I can’t say I was much of a football fraternity we that surprised to see him leave it have here for guys who’ve worn because he has done so much for the red and white jersey – that so the program and me personally many people feel ownership in and I’m going to miss him being what we try to do here,” here.” Harbaugh said. “They bought But, the fact is, he won’t be on into it and part of that trophy is the Hill when Taggart returns to theirs.” the sidelines next year. And, that is what trophies have Like those that Harbaugh him- always meant for Harbaugh. A self used to look up to as models symbol of the achievements and of what it takes to build the accomplishments of others. whole person through teaching Humble. Even as he walks off

football, so too must Taggart do. into the sunset. Hagan-Booth Photo by Sheryl Around 40-45 of Harbaugh’s former players representing Kyle Hightower is a junior print almost every season he’s coached journalism major from Paducah, at Western lined the stands at the Kentucky. He is the sports editor for Dec. 20 championship game in the College Heights Herald. Chattanooga. In the weeks since

6 Western Kentucky University TrueFan WKU Fan Lives Happily in a Sea of Red

By Jacob Bennett Martha Lloyd’s house is easy to spot—it’s the one with Western decals on the door. She even put out two red towels for as long as WKU had a basketball team in the NCAA tournament. And then she opens the door. From the WKU sun catcher in the living room to the WKU magnets on the refrigerator to the painting signed by Jack and Jim Harbaugh in her bedroom, Photo by Sheryl Hagan-Booth Photo by Sheryl the inside of her house also looks like Big Red went berserk in a special episode of “Trading Spaces.” “I dare anybody to come into this house and not know where I went to school,” Lloyd said. Martha Lloyd (’72) amidst just some of her WKU memorabilia At games, it’s also easy to spot Lloyd herself — “I’m the loudest homecoming weekend in 1967. days is the good play of her for- one,” she said. She enrolled as a freshman the mer students on North Hardin The 1972 grad could have the next fall, and got the first of her High School’s boys’ basketball reddest blood of any WKU fan— three teaching degrees in 1972. team. This year she juggled a season ticket holder for basket- Lloyd has been a sports nut WKU’s men’s and women’s bas- ball and football, for 30 years since she was little and she spent ketball tournament appearances she has driven more than an her Saturdays and Sundays with the Trojans’ tournament hour from her home in Radcliff watching pigskin. She went to games. to watch her beloved Toppers every football and men’s basket- In fact, one day before WKU’s tussle. ball game in college; she still tournament play began, NHHS She cracks up when asked how catches all the football games played in the state tournament in many WKU sporting events she and most of the men’s and Rupp Arena, home of the has attended. She doesn’t know, women’s basketball games. She University of Kentucky Wildcats. and she doesn’t want to. has only missed one football Despite wearing Trojan blue, “It would probably scare me if game since graduation—in Lloyd wore a button that showed I knew a number,” she said. November 1997, when her father off her true colors: Western has been her passion died. “Western is the University of since she visited campus on The only thing that gets in the Kentucky.” way of her WKU cheers these 7 Alumni Spring 2003 David Elson Named WKU Head Football Coach scoring defense, becoming just the second team in league history to allow fewer than 10 points per contest in GFC games. In WKU’s first season in the conference, it led all teams in rush, pass, total and scoring defense, setting a league record in total yards allowed per game — the Toppers ranked in the top 10 nationally in each category. Photo by Sheryl Hagan-Booth Photo by Sheryl Nine defensive players have earned first-team all-conference honors the last two years, with 13 total recognized by the vot- ers. And, two defensive backs have been selected consensus All- America — Bobby Sippio (‘00) Elson with wife, Kathy, and daughters Lauren (6) and Jessica (1). and Mel Mitchell (’01) — while Selig for the opportunity to lead nine Hilltoppers on that side of A fter serving as defensive the best football program, in my the ball have been named All- coordinator for Western opinion, in the United States,” America since Elson’s arrival. Kentucky University’s NCAA I- Elson said. “Words cannot Mitchell and Joseph Jefferson AA national championship team describe how excited I am to were both selected in the 2002 last year, David Elson was named have the chance to take on this National Football League draft, the school’s head football coach challenge. It’s an honor to fol- the first time since 1990 that two by Director of Athletics Dr. low in the footsteps of people Western players were picked in Wood Selig. like Jimmy Feix and Jack the same year, while Jefferson Elson replaces Jack Harbaugh, Harbaugh, and the program is at was the first player chosen from who resigned after 14 years at a time where things have never an NCAA I-AA institution. the helm of the program. At 31, been better. I’m looking forward “We are very pleased to Elson is the second-youngest to building on that and continu- announce David Elson as our head coach on the Division I ing our successful tradition. new head football coach for sev- level. “My family and I love the eral reasons,” Dr. Selig said. He was the longest-tenured Bowling Green community and “Coach Elson has been on the assistant on Harbaugh’s staff, appreciate all that the University Hilltopper staff for seven sea- working seven years on the Hill has done for us over the years.” sons, two as defensive coordina- with defensive backs, the last Last season the Hilltoppers led tor during a period that saw two as defensive coordinator. the Gateway Football Conference WKU’s defense rank number one “I want to thank (WKU in the regular season in rush, in the nation in total defense. We President Gary) Ransdell and Dr. pass, pass efficiency, total and feel defense wins championships.

8 Western Kentucky University many others.” Elson came to the Hill from Southern Illinois, where he served as a graduate assistant coach in 1994 and 1995 while earning a master’s degree in edu- cation. He is a 1994 graduate of Butler, where he was a three-year letter winner and started at strong safety his final two sea- sons. The Bulldogs were conference champions in both his sophomore and junior years. A native of Indianapolis, Elson and his wife Kathy have two daughters, Lauren (6) and Jessica (1). Elson is the 16th head coach in the school’s 84 years of foot- ball, but just the sixth since 1948. The Toppers have an all- time record of 472-305-30 (60.3%) with 10 postseason appearances. The Hilltoppers began spring practice Thursday, April 3. The schedule that Elson and Western will face in the fall will be Photo by Joe Imel released soon. Elson’s intense work as defensive coordinator helped guide the ‘Toppers to the NCAA I-AA national championship. The Elson File “Coach Elson will allow us the reached the NCAA I-AA playoffs Born: Aug. 26, 1971, opportunity to maintain continu- in four of the last six seasons. In Indianapolis, Ind. ity within a program that has addition to winning the Gateway gone to three straight playoffs, Conference championship last High School: Cathedral ’89 culminating with a national fall, the Toppers also claimed the High School Athletics: championship this season. He 2000 Ohio Valley Conference Football, SS, 3 letters was an integral part of that suc- crown. (co-captain, all-city) cess serving as recruiting coordi- “I was very impressed with College: Butler ’94 (BS), nator every year he was here. David’s interview and the time Southern Illinois ’95 (MS) Coach Elson is familiar with our we spent with both David and College Athletics: coaching personnel as well as our Kathy Elson,” President Ransdell Football, SS, 3 letters student-athletes and recruits, and said. “He has the character, drive Coaching Experience: we were not interested in making and knowledge which all Southern Illinois, graduate wholesale changes at a time Hilltopper fans expect in our assistant (1994-95); when our program has reached head football coach. I’m confi- WKU, assistant (1996-2002) the apex of I-AA football.” dent David will strengthen the Family: Western is 61-24 (71.8%) over rich traditions built by Jack Wife, Kathy; two daughters, the last seven years, and has Harbaugh, Jimmy Feix and so Lauren (6) and Jessica (1) 9 Alumni Spring 2003 CAMPUS NEWS

DUC Set for Renovations This Summer

Downing University Center will have a new look when students return for classes this fall. This summer, DUC will undergo $6 million in capital improvements from both the University and from Aramark, which operates WKU Dining Services.The renovations will increase the usable space by enclosing the southern half of the porch that surrounds the building. East Elevation View Aramark will renovate the Topper Café and Food Court areas to bring a fresh foods concept to the student center. The improvements are part of a multi-phased, $11 million renova- tion of the student center, which opened in 1970. ______

Likes Wins Honors for South East View Sept. 11 Documentary Dr.Terry Likes, an associate pro- fessor in Western’s School of Journalism and Broadcasting, has won national honors for his radio documentary on “The Media Coverage of 9/11.” Likes received “Best Of Festival” designation from the Broadcast Education Association.“This is the highest award for the Faculty Audio South Elevation View Competition,” according to David Steve Kroft, CBS 60 Minutes; Neal for KTNV-TV in Las Vegas; Julie Reese, competition chair. Shapiro, NBC News president; Bob Kraft, a former Des Moines televi- The program aired on Sept. 6, Dotson, NBC News; John Cochran, sion news director/anchor; and Bob 2002, on WKYU-FM, and later aired ABC News; Deborah Potter, a for- Freeman, news director of WFIE- in Chicago,Washington, D.C., and mer CNN and CBS correspondent; TV in Evansville, Ind. on the Kentucky News Network. In Al Tompkins,Poynter Institute for Likes, a former radio/television the report, the audience heard Media Studies; Ross Becker, anchor reporter, has taught at WKU since from Sam Donaldson,ABC News; 10 Western Kentucky University CAMPUS NEWS 1988. His 1998 documentary on school groups, literary clubs and career goals in sports journalism Global Weather Events won honors university classes. and major in journalism or have from the Kentucky Associated Survant has had four collections experience in campus sports jour- Press. His 1999 “State of the of poetry published:“Rafting Rise,” nalism.The program is designed to News” documentary won an award “We Will All Be Changed,” “Anne foster freedoms of speech and from the Broadcast Education and Alpheus, 1842-1882” and “The press while promoting quality Association and the 2000 video fol- Presence of Snow in the Tropics.” sports journalism education at the low-up won first-place from the ______collegiate level. National Press Club. This semester Hightower is Hightower Wins Sports sports editor of the College Heights ______Journalism Scholarship Herald,WKU’s student newspaper. Survant Named Kentucky Western junior He has interned at the Paducah Sun, Poet Laureate Kyle Hightower Lexington Herald-Leader and A 32-year veteran of Western’s was selected as Philadelphia Daily News and will be English Department has been one of eight an intern next summer at the named Kentucky Poet Laureate for Freedom Forum- Atlanta Journal Constitution. 2003-05. NCAA Sports Joe Survant, who is semi-retired, Journalism WKU Junior Kyle ______Hightower was nominated for the title by Scholarship win- Southern Kentucky ners for the 2003-04 academic year. Kentucky State University English Festival of Books Named professor Richard Taylor, who has Hightower, a print journalism also been poet laureate.The selec- major from Paducah, will receive a to Kentucky Top 10 tion was made by the Kentucky $3,000 scholarship for his senior The Poet Laureate Committee of the year. His picture also appeared in Kentucky Kentucky Arts Council and the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Tourism approved by Gov. Paul Patton. Basketball Championship programs. Council has As poet laureate, Survant will be The Freedom Forum, through a selected an ambassador for poetry and liter- grant to the NCAA, supports eight the ature in Kentucky and may talk to scholarships to juniors who have Southern Kentucky Festival of Books as one of the state’s spring “Top Ten” events. The festival, sponsored by WKU Libraries and the Kentucky Museum, is the state’s largest liter- ary event.The two-day event was April 11-12, during National Library Week. A panel of impartial judges selects the “Top Ten” events for each season. Criteria include popu- larity of the event, its impact on the local tourism economy and cultural and historical significance.

Photo by LaDonna Harmon Kentucky Poet Laureate Joe Survant 11 Alumni Spring 2003

William E. Bivin Forensic Society Wins Fourth International Title

Western Kentucky University's forensic team claimed its fourth International Forensic Association title as WKU students won interna- This is the strongest team tional championships in eight of 10 “ events. we’ve had in the past 13 years In overall sweepstakes, 18 mem- bers of the William E. Bivin Forensic Society doubled the score of sec- at Western. ond-place Texas Southern.The three-day tournament was held in ” -Judy Woodring ’68 Vancouver, British Columbia. “This is the strongest team we’ve Forensics Director had in the past 13 years at Western,” said Judy Woodring (‘68), forensics director. WKU's international champions ior from Fort Myers, Fla., persuasive comes from the classroom.That are: Nicole Estenfelder, a Florence speaking. Reagan Gibson, a senior speaks well about the level of sophomore, informative speaking from Evansville, Ind., Lincoln-Douglas instruction our students receive as and programmed oral interpretation. debate. well as the library and technology Jennifer Purcell, a sophomore from In the two other events,Western resources Western provides for stu- Lewisville,Texas,impromptu speak- finished second and third. David dent research.” ing. Chris Brasfield, a Fulton fresh- Burns, a sophomore from Dayton, Western won IFA championships man, prose interpretation. Keith Ohio, and Stacy Bernaugh, a senior in 1999, 2000 and 2001, but didn't Blaser, a senior from Evansville, Ind., from Seaside, Calif., were second in travel to the 2002 competition after after-dinner speaking. Lindsey Nave, duo interpretation, while Silvera and the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. a junior from Harrisburg, Ill., poetry Caleb Williams, a sophomore from WKU President Gary Ransdell interpretation. Evelio Silvera, a jun- Lewisville,Texas,were third in parlia- called the team's success “a major mentary debate. accomplishment.We have staked a Each academic area at Western claim that this program is a priority shares in the forensics team's suc- at Western, now we must proclaim cess, she said. such success loudly. “Anytime we win a national or “Our basketball teams have international event, it shows how received a lot of attention for their strong our academic units are on recent successes, but those success- campus,” Woodring said.“Our stu- es pale in comparison to what this dents come from every major and team has achieved.To be the best in discipline.The knowledge they use in the world is a rare and proud speech and debate competition accomplishment.”

13 Alumni Spring 2003 The Spirit Does Make the Master as Western Alums Rise to Presidential Status

By Tommy Newton ing. As a result, WKU’s impact on education is pro- From its beginnings as a teacher’s college, Western found.” Kentucky University has built a tradition of devel- Dr. Ransdell called the leadership legacy, which oping leaders for elementary and secondary schools. includes numerous higher education administrators The University’s educational leadership legacy and board members, “a pretty strong compliment to doesn’t stop at the principal’s office or superinten- Western.” dent’s desk. The legacy extends all the way to the “An interesting kind of phenomenon has unfolded president’s job or chancellor’s position at the post- here,” Dr. Ransdell said. “I think that when this secondary level. many people rise to this position from one institu- In 2003, the list of leaders includes Dr. Gary tion there’s something more to it than coincidence.” Ransdell at WKU, Dr. James Ramsey at the When Dr. Meredith returned to Western as presi- University of Louisville, Dr. Oscar Page at Austin dent in 1988, he could seek advice from four former College in Texas and Dr. Thomas Meredith at the presidents or interim presidents — Kelly Thompson, University of Georgia system. Dero Downing, John Minton and Paul Cook. “Western’s historical roots and strong tradition over “That was kind of a unique situation in which to many years has been as a teacher’s college,” Dr. enter,” Dr. Meredith said. “Usually when I tell peo- Ramsey said. “Most often that has been viewed in ple that there were four former presidents on cam- the context of K-12. However, I believe that pus when I got there, they faint. But, I quickly tell Western’s commitment to the value of education has them that all four were extraordinarily supportive become embedded in educators from early child- every day.” hood, to K-12, to higher education, to adult learn- The support, encouragement and guidance offered by administrators and faculty members provided a

Western Kentucky University roadmap to educational leadership, but “we all took different routes into the presidency,” Dr. Meredith said. For example, Dr. Meredith was a high school prin- cipal before entering higher education leadership; Dr. Ransdell’s background included alumni and develop- ment positions; Dr. Alexander was an endowed pro- fessor; and Dr. Ramsey’s roles included economics professor and state budget director. As an undergraduate student in economics at Western, Dr. Ramsey said, “I learned that higher edu- cation is about much more than going to class and learning course material. Western instilled in me an important set of values that have guided me through- out my life.” H.L Donovan, the first student Dr. Ransdell agreed. “I think the values that one enrolled in Western Kentucky State Normal School and later served as president of Eastern Kentucky and gets at Western coupled with the history and tradi- University of Kentucky. tions of this place are certainly the kinds of things that most campuses would emulate or strive to instill in alumni, students and faculty,” he said. “Maybe there’s some value in the characteristics that one comes to embrace in this place. Maybe it does lend itself to leadership.” Dr. Page said his interest in administrative leader- ship was stimulated by his interaction with the administrators and faculty at Western. “While teach- ing at Western for one semester while working on my doctorate, I learned a lot about teaching and observed the work of people like Ray Cravens and John Minton as they led the college through a period of rapid growth and development,” he said. “Western was quite different then because it was a Kelly Thompson who received his bachelor’s (‘35) and master’s (‘43) degrees at Western and was the school’s small state college but these men were shaping the third president. future of the college with every decision they made. I was impressed with what I saw and realized they held

My mentors at Western were faculty, staff and administrators who “played a prominent role in the development of me as an individual — the principles and values that I live by daily.

- Dr. James Ramsey ‘70 ”President of the University Of Louisville

Alumni Spring 2003 challenging roles that were very meaningful.” Before assuming his position at Austin College, Dr. Page served as a history faculty member at University of Georgia, dean of Wesleyan College in Macon, Ga., vice president and provost at Lander University in Greenwood, S.C., and president of Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tenn. “Because of my experience at the ‘smaller’ Western, I have had a tendency to focus my work in smaller colleges,” Dr. Page said. “Obviously, Georgia was the one exception. The personal relationships that I developed at Western have greatly influenced my D ero Downing received his bachelor’s (‘43) and mas- work and my goal of promoting these types of rela- ter’s (’47) at Western and was the school’s fourth president. tionships wherever I have worked.” Relationships developed on the Hill also influenced Dr. Martin Massengale in his four decades of educa- tional leadership roles. Faculty members like H.L. Stephens and L.Y. Lancaster in biology and Charles Taylor and Charles Keown in agriculture “had a great impact on me.” Dr. Massengale was 14 when he left the family farm in Wayne County for Western in 1948. “I was just a young person. These faculty members recog- nized my potential more than I did.” He received his bachelor’s degree in agriculture and biology in 1952, becoming the first person in his fam- ily to earn a college degree. Two brothers and a sister followed. “Our parents understood the value of an education” even though they hadn’t graduated from M artin Massengale received his bachelor’s (‘52) at Western and is president emeritus of University of Nebraska. high school, Dr. Massengale said. Stephens, head of the biology department, steered him to the University of Wisconsin, where he earned his master’s and doctorate. “I think those four people took an interest in me, encouraged me and supported me along the way,” Dr. Massengale said. “They had a major impact on what I was doing.” His career has included U.S. Army service, faculty and administrative roles at the University of Arizona, chancellor of University of Nebraska-Lincoln, presi- dent of University of Nebraska, leadership roles in professional and agricultural organizations, consult- ing visits to a dozen nations and intercollegiate athlet- ics leadership roles with the NCAA, Knight Commission and College Football Association. “Western has had a great impact on my life and on the impact I’ve had nationally and internationally,” Oscar Page received his master’s (‘63) at Western and is serving as president of Austin College in Sherman, Texas. Western Kentucky University Dr. Massengale said. Dr. Meredith also has had a national impact in leadership roles in Mississippi, Kentucky, Alabama and Georgia education systems. “I knew I wanted to pursue administration for quite some time, but the decision to move into higher education administration occurred while I was pursu- ing a doctorate at the University of Mississippi,” said Dr. Meredith, whose mentors as a graduate student included John Minton, John Scarborough and James Hicks. Dr. Ramsey said his Western education prepared him for master’s and doctoral work and for a career Kern Alexander received his master’s (‘62) at Western and served as president of WKU and Murray State goal as an economics faculty member. “A number of University. years later, as the associate dean for the College of Business at Loyola University in New Orleans, the provost told me that is hard to define a ‘good’ higher education administrator, but that I had what it takes. “At the same time,” Dr. Ramsey continued, “I did- n’t want to give up my profession as an economist, so I took advantage of every opportunity to be in a high- er education administrative position.” Dr. Ramsey served Western as vice president for finance and administration for six years as well as professor of economics. He still values the education and experiences gained on the Hill. “My mentors at Western were faculty, staff and administrators who played a prominent role in the development of me as an individual — the principles Thomas Meredith received his master’s (‘66) at Western, and values that I live by daily,” he said. “People like was the school’s eighth president and is serving as chancellor Dero Downing, Dee Gibson, Dr. James Davis, Dr. of the University of Georgia system. Bob Pulsinelli, Dr. Rich Cantrell and many others all had a profound influence in my life.” Dr. Dero Downing, a mentor to several Western leaders, had his own mentors as he rose through the ranks at Western from student-athlete, faculty mem- ber, and administrator to president. “I had the good fortune of having classes with some of the Western greats,” including Gordon Wilson Sr., Miss Frances Richards and H.M. Yarbrough, he said. “All of those people had such a commitment to academic excellence and shaped the university’s foun- dation,” Dr. Downing said. Dr. Downing succeeded one of the people responsi- ble for shaping Western’s foundation, Dr. Kelly Thompson. “Dr. Thompson had a tremendous influ- J ames Ramsey received his bachelor’s (‘70) at Western and is serving as president of University of Louisville. Alumni Spring 2003 ence on my career and vice president and my life,” he for Institutional said. Advancement at Dr. Thompson Clemson, Dr. received his bache- Ransdell knew his lor’s and master’s doctorate in higher degrees from education adminis- Western and began tration (Indiana his career under University ’78) had President Henry him on track for Hardin Cherry. the top job. Thompson, who “In pursuit of also served as the that degree, it was school’s publicity Gary Ransdell received his bachelor’s degree (‘73) and clear to me that my master’s (‘74) from Western and is the school’s ninth president. director and assis- career goal was to tant to President reach this position, Paul Garrett, not necessarily became Western’s third president in 1955 and led the here, but to become to a university president,” he school through a period of enrollment growth and said. “That’s what the degree was all about and construction. that’s what I wanted to pursue.” “Both Kelly Thompson and Dero Downing were Timing and circumstance, however, had to align on campus when I became president,” Dr. Meredith for that goal to be achieved at Western. “I was pre- said. “They provided extremely valuable insight and pared to seek this job in any number of institutions guidance.” in the Southeast at the point in Dr. Ransdell became time I began talking with acquainted with Dr. Thompson Western,” Dr. Ransdell said. and was a student during Dr. I think that when “It just so happened that Downing’s tenure as president, this many people rise Tom Meredith was leaving. I but “Dr. Minton was the one I “ had been at Clemson at that knew quite well and who guid- to this position from time for 10 or 11 years and was ed me in most of my career ready. But then I had to be sure decisions.” one institution there’s that Western was ready for me. Dr. Minton, who would something more to it Was Western ready to achieve its serve as Western’s fifth presi- full potential? To go through the dent, was responsible for Dr. than coincidence. necessary changes? Ransdell’s graduate assistant- “Having been away 18 ship and his first job at years, I didn’t know whether it Western in the Office of - Dr. Gary Ransdell” ‘73 was or not,” Dr. Ransdell said. University School Relations. “The Board of Regents and I Dr. Minton encouraged the Current WKU President had to both get to know each future president to earn his other and reach the necessary master’s and doctorate then conclusion that we were both seek professional experience elsewhere. seeking the same thing for Western. When that hap- Even though his career has included jobs as associ- pened, I became the fortunate beneficiary of being ate director of Alumni Affairs at WKU, director of able to serve in this job at my alma mater.” Alumni Relations at Southern Methodist University

Western Kentucky University CAMPAIGN HEADQUARTERS WKU Receives Gift for Academic Athletic Center Family’s Giving Makes Them Largest Contributor to I-AA Football in Nation

Western Kentucky University has received a new gift of $1.55 million for an Academic and Athletic Performance Center from a donor who wishes to remain confidential. The principal beneficiary of the proposed facility is the Hilltopper Football program. Photo by Sheryl Hagan-Booth Photo by Sheryl According to WKU Athletics Director Wood Selig, this gift in support of a proposed center will bring total gifts from this family to $4.9 million, which is believed to be largest amount given by a single donor to any I-AA football pro- gram in the nation. In addition, these gifts make the family the WKU Athletics Director Wood Selig and VP of Institutional Advancement Tom Hiles present a prototype of the proposed Center. fourth largest donors to football in the history of the Commonwealth “We have a finite window of time donors. “We are so grateful for of Kentucky. to capitalize on the national spot- what this family has done and con- “This facility is at the top of our light that has been directed to our tinues to do for Western,” he said. current wish list to benefit all of campus and our athletic depart- “This enrichment center is a per- our 350 student-athletes,” Selig ment.” fect bookend for the Diddle Arena said. “It will assist all student-ath- According to Selig,Western is renovation. In one part of campus letes with computer labs, study now solidly on the radar for some we are restoring one of the areas, and our primary academic of the best athletes in the country, nation’s best on-campus basketball advising center, and it will also thanks in large part to the highly facilities to benefit numerous ath- house our primary weight training visible National Championship for letic and academic programs. This facility, athletic training and rehabili- football.“Facilities recruit athletes new center, to be located between tation center, and offices and locker better than any other tangible the football and baseball fields, is rooms for football and baseball.” asset,” he said.“In order to keep another step in creating the facili- Selig said the new Academic the momentum going forward, ties necessary to enable our stu- Athletic Performance Center will progress in the area of facilities is dents to be nationally competitive be located in the heart of the ath- the best statement to prospective – in the classroom and on the ath- letic precinct and accessible to all student-athletes as to the value and letic field.” 20 intercollegiate athletic programs. importance of an athletic program. Tom Hiles,WKU’s vice president “The name of the Academic The facility will be a significant for Institutional Advancement, says Athletic Performance Center is statement to the prominence of “This new gift brings us closer to completely accurate as it will serve intercollegiate athletics at WKU our $90 million goal.We are very to enhance the scholarly and ath- and the national aspirations we grateful for this generous new lead- letic performance of all of WKU’s have for all of our academic and ership commitment which plays a student athletes,” he said. athletic programs.” key role in completing a major “WKU has just captured its first WKU President Gary A. Ransdell upgrade in our campus facilities.” National Championship,” said Selig. expressed his appreciation to the 19 Alumni Spring 2003 CAMPAIGN HEADQUARTERS Kentucky National Bank Makes Gift to WKU Isbell Gift In Honor of Lois Gray

Creates Two Western Kentucky University has a received a gift from Scholarships Kentucky National Bank to fund scholarships for students from Rosella Isbell of Bowling Green Hardin County, Ky. This $10,000 recently made two $50,000 gifts to gift was made in honor of Lois create scholarship funds that will Gray of Vine Grove, Ky., chair of provide awards to students in per- the WKU Board of Regents and petuity. One gift created the Calvin a founding board member for M. and Rosella Spivey Isbell Kentucky National Bank. Scholarship Fund for the WKU The gift will annually provide Department of Nursing and the four $500 scholarships to gradu- other created the Calvin M. and ates of Central Hardin High Rosella Spivey Isbell Alumni School, Elizabethtown High Leadership Scholarships. Mr. Isbell, School, John Hardin High School, an alumnus of the Bowling Green and North Hardin High School. Business University, passed away in These students will be referred 1997. to as the Lois Gray Scholars. Lois Gray

Lois has been an outstanding member of our Board Calvin and I became inter- “ested in the nursing profession of“ Regents. It is indeed appropriate that Kentucky National many years ago when we had a Bank has chosen to honor her in such a wonderful way. It is

niece who entered school to a fitting tribute to her interest in and dedication to higher become a nurse. We have education in Kentucky. always wanted to do something - WKU President, Gary A. Ransdell to support worthy students pur- ” suing a nursing career. I am also Through her leadership, Lois has helped shape the pleased that we can provide sup- quality educational opportunities our young people enjoy. port for the Alumni Leadership “ Scholarship program. This pro- This gift is a fitting tribute to her and a sound investment gram is grooming fine young stu- Kentucky National Bank is making in our youth — the

dents to become outstanding future of Elizabethtown and Hardin County.

leaders. -Larry Calvert, ” CEO, Kentucky” National Bank -Rosella Spivey Isbell 20 Western Kentucky University CAMPAIGN HEADQUARTERS Campaign Update Unmet Needs Remain in Investing in the Spirit Campaign Western Kentucky University has INSTRUCTIONAL • Acquisition of new items for muse- reached the initial $78 million goal for TECHNOLOGY um collections the Investing in the Spirit Campaign Goal: $1,000,000 • Additional exhibits and is within $2 million of the new Amount Raised: $250,000 • New educational programming goal of $90 million. However, many Achieving the Campaign’s UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES unmet priorities remain in spite of Instructional Technology goal will Goal: $1,000,000 those successes. These include the allow Western to better utilize tech- Amount Raised: $732,554 areas of Cultural Enhancement, nology, enabling students and faculty The University Libraries support Instructional Technology, the Kentucky to acquire, share, and manage knowl- Western’s roles of teaching, research, Museum, and University Libraries. edge more efficiently. Additional and public service by serving as a Those needs include: funds will help meet Western’s strate- regional source for information gic goal to ensure that all students CULTURAL ENHANCEMENT access and education. The library sys- possess the ability to utilize informa- Goal: $1,000,000 tem is an integral part of any universi- tion technologies in their respective Amount Raised: $173,000 ty as it is the only entity that touches disciplines and provide the following Investing in the Spirit seeks to the lives of students and faculty in all opportunities. enhance the student experience by academic disciplines. Additional funds • Smart classrooms offering a series of activities each year for the libraries will provide: • Enhanced instructional equipment designed to enrich the University’s • Support for new focus collections in • Computer and technology cultural life. Reaching across many the main library enhancements disciplines, these activities feature • Additional research materials for the prominent artists and scholars who THE KENTUCKY MUSEUM Kentucky Library will present both on the stage and in Goal: $1,000,000 • Enhanced electronic library resources the classroom working directly with Amount Raised: $605,000 These areas are directly reflective of students and faculty. This area of the The Kentucky Museum is dedicated the goals outlined in Western’s Campaign directly relates to the to the collection, preservation, and Challenging the Spirit strategic plan. University’s strategic goal of providing interpretation of materials that reflect Collectively, the goals are designed to cultural community events that enrich the unique history, culture, events, and guide WKU toward its vision to “be the quality of life in our community. people of Kentucky. Meeting this goal the best comprehensive public institu- Additional funds raised in this area would provide the following opportu- tion in Kentucky and among the best will provide the following activities. nities for the program. in the nation.” • Cultural community events • Conservation of rare and important •Visiting artists and scholars artifacts Hardin County Donor Supports Student Scholarships New student scholarships will be for select Central Hardin High “Endowed student scholarships are provided and a visiting professor- School students who attend WKU, one of the most important priori- ship funded at Western Kentucky and a $400,000 endowment to cre- ties outlined within our Challenging University thanks to a recent gift ate a Visiting Professorship in the Spirit strategic plan. In addi- from a donor from Hardin County, Business Leadership and Ethics in tion, support for nationally promi- Ky., who wishes to remain confi- the Gordon Ford College of nent faculty is essential in preparing dential. Business. competent graduates and leaders This gift will be made through a “We are extremely grateful that seeking to create, renovate, or $500,000 charitable remainder this donor has chosen to support grow existing business organiza- trust, which will create both a Western in such a generous way,” tions or to bring new ideas for $100,000 scholarship endowment said WKU President Gary Ransdell. business development to Kentucky.” 21 Alumni Spring 2003 WESTERN HISTORY The 1960s demonstrating for change

By Sue Lynn Stone, University Archivist Iowa City, Iowa. One local newspa- students headed for Fountain The 1960s was a period of per estimated the crowd at the Square Park to protest new social change in student life. During this College Street bridge had grown to conduct rules that would severely decade,Western became a universi- 1,000 by 9:30 p.m. Six students curtail necking on campus. ty, experienced great growth in stu- were arrested for disturbing the Students told reporters that dent enrollment and faculty, and built numerous campus build- ings. And, as the college grew into a university, its students sought a larger voice signs in dormitories on campus. warned girls not to In the early 1960s, talk to boys while when students felt sunbathing, students the need to be not to sit in cars heard by their cam- unless their heads pus administrators, are above the win- they took to the dows, and that streets. “Basketball goodnight kisses Fever” can be must be brief. blamed for Dorm directors said Western’s first stu- there were no such dent demonstration signs; college offi- of the decade. On cials and campus Wednesday after- police said they knew of no new noon, March 14, Students and fans shout,“We want a holiday!”, Park City Daily News, March 15, 1962 1962, a small group of regulations. students on campus began protest- peace. An editorial in the next In April 1964, more than 300 stu- ing the college’s refusal to grant a College Heights Herald called for an dents marched down College holiday on that Friday when the alternate route for student expres- Street to Fountain Square Park and men’s basketball team was playing sion in policies that concerned then proceeded to Clay Street University of Iowa in the NCAA them. where 23 students were arrested Mid-East Regional tournament in In May 1963, an estimated 750 after rocks were hurled at the resi-

22 Western Kentucky University WESTERN HISTORY

dence of Pauline Tabor. Although ing formalized student government. the Moratorium on Oct. 15, 1969. two newspapers quoted students College Heights Herald cartoons Western’s last demonstration of as saying the students were demon- echoed concerns about student the 1960s drew an estimated 1200 strating because things “had been apathy and the end of the tradition- participants, singing protest songs quiet too long,” an underground al Spring riot. Meanwhile, more and chanting “Well it’s one, two, newspaper called The Agitator insist- students expressed interest in three, what are we fightin’ for?” ed that they were on a “noble mis- national affairs, the draft and Viet Did you demonstrate while a sion, namely, to stamp out a house Nam. Five thousand students and student at Western? If so, please of prostitution.” friends sent a petition in support of write about your experience and Finally, in March 1965, a student the American troops that year; send it to University Archives! forum began the process of creat- 3,000 signed a petition endorsing

College Heights Herald, March 31, 1965 College Heights Herald,May 13, 1965

23 Alumni Spring 2003 twincents Young entrepreneurs find success at WKU’s Center for Research and Development and in the classroom… what a freshman year! By Scott Sisco,The Daily News Chris and Clinton Mills are nearing the end of their first year as students at Western Kentucky University. They are also getting more and more comfortable in their office at Western’s Center for Research and Development. The twin brothers run Hitcents.com, an Internet advertising compa- ny. “I was happy with all of my classes,” Chris Mills said. So happy, he made the Dean’s Scholar List for his first semester. He’s been taking mainly gener- al education classes in his first year and he clept out of a computer class. Clinton Mills has been taking some classes in his business major. “I’m very interested in business and learning about business,” he said. Going to Western has helped the brothers by making new friends which helps to relieve stress by getting the brothers out of the office. The new office has given the Millses a work- space, something they didn’t have when they were running the business out of the family home. “It’s made business thrive,” Chris Mills said. “It’s really let people get to know of us better.” A lot of people from Western have come to the center to talk to the Millses too. “I got to meet a lot of Western students before school started,” Clinton Mills said. Clinton Mills is planning to take one class over the summer just to get ahead. “It’s too early to tell, but right now I’m on tar- get for four years,” he said. “It’s very hard to manage a full-time business plus books.” High Tide Technologies, another company in Young Entrepreneurs Chris (left) and Clinton Mills

24 the center, began in July by Joe Ahler and his partner David Mundie. The company manufac- tures a device that allows the user to monitor water, waste water and transmission pipeline equipment via the Internet from around the world. “We send packets of data at specific incre- ments,” Ahler said. Ahler said he’s hoping to get a crew into his space soon to renovate and be up and running. The company applied for several research and development grants. “Part of being able to get these grants, we have to team with a university,” Ahler said. Since Ahler and Mundie are both from Nashville, Bowling Green and Western offered a good opportunity. “It was a good fit for us,” Ahler said. High Tide has clients in places such as Peru, Mexico and Canada. “It keeps us moving pretty quickly,” Ahler said. Ann Mead, chief financial officer for Western, has the challenge of attracting start-up, New Economy businesses to the center. The companies locating to the center must pay the cost of renovations because Western doesn’t have the funds to cover it, Mead said. Western bought the old Bowling Green Mall property to bring in technology companies. The University received a New Economy grant from the state to purchase the property and make a few improve- ments. “We have to be careful to stay true to what the state wants us to do,” Mead said. Some of those improvements have been to the parking lot. Some of the parking lot has been sub- divided and will be either leased or sold to com- mercial businesses, such as restaurants and banks. “ We would love to see Western alumni and friends locate back to the center to make Bowling Green their future business and home,” said Mead. Photo by Sheryl Hagan-Booth Photo by Sheryl We want you back! WKU Center for Research and Development Leasing space for start-up companies Contact: Ann Mead 270.745.2434 25 CominghomePhotos by Sheryl Hagan-Booth Alumni and friends celebrated Coming Home festivities in conjunction with a WKU Basketball Senior Day doubleheader

Hilltopper and Lady Topper bas- ketball legends graced the Reunion Room in the newly constructed Hall of Champions. Those legends, along with a sold out Diddle Arena, watched the Lady Toppers as well as the men’s team come out victorious over Middle Tennessee State University. It was a memorable celebration of dual Sun Belt Conference regular season championships! 26 Western Kentucky University 27 Alumni Spring 2003 ATHLETICS CHAMPS! women... Photo by Joe Imel Photo by Sheryl Hagan-Booth Photo by Sheryl Photo by Joe Imel Photo by Joe Imel

28 Western Kentucky University ATHLETICS ...and men! ht yJeIe Photo by Joe Imel Photo by Joe Imel Photo by Sheryl Hagan-Booth Photo by Sheryl

29 Alumni Spring 2003 ATHLETICS Photo by Sheryl Hagan-Booth Photo by Sheryl Photo by Sheryl Hagan-Booth Photo by Sheryl Photo by Joe Imel Photo by Joe Imel Photo by Joe Imel

30 Western Kentucky University ATHLETICS Photo by Sheryl Hagan-Booth Photo by Sheryl Photo by Joe Imel Photo by Joe Imel Photo by Joe Imel

Photo by Joe Imel Photo by Joe Imel

31 Alumni Spring 2003 ATHLETICS WKU Retires Jersey of Basketball Great Carlisle Towery Towery’s is only the sixth Hilltopper basketball jersey to hang in Diddle Arena

Carlisle Towery, two Kentucky Western Kentucky’s Intercollegiate Athletic first two-time All- Conference titles. American and the first And, he was an impor- Hilltopper to score tant part of the ‘39-40 1,000 career points, Topper club that made had a jersey bearing the school’s first his number (42) appearance in the retired in his honor NCAA Tournament. during halftime cere- To wery led the monies of the WKU- Hilltoppers in scoring Ball State ESPN both his junior (13.8 Bracket Buster points per game) and Saturday game Feb. 22. senior (17.0 ppg - the To wery was the first Western athlete sixth former to average more than Hilltopper basketball 16 points a game) sea- great to be honored sons after ranking sec- in this fashion.The ond on the ‘38-39 legendary Western club (10.6 ppg). He coach E.A. Diddle, completed his career

along with All- Photo by Bruce Davis at Western with 1,010 Americans John points, averaging 13.3 Oldham,Tom Marshall, ppg for his career. Clem Haskins and Jim He was twice McDaniels, already named to the All- have jerseys hanging KIAC and All-SIAA from the rafters in teams. Diddle Arena. And, To wery went on Lady Topper consen- to play eight seasons sus All-American Lillie of professional basket- Mason is recognized ball with the Ft. WKU mascot Big Red congratulates Carlisle Towery on joining an elite group similarly. Wayne Pistons, the of Hilltopper basketball legends. A Chuck Taylor Indianapolis Jets and Basketball All- the Baltimore Bullets, American both his junior and sen- teams he played on won 68 of 81 all wrapped around a stint in the ior seasons (1939-40 and ‘40-41), games (84%) - going 22-3 in ‘38- military. “Big Boy” Towery came to the Hill 39; 24-6 in ‘39-40; and 22-4 in ‘40- Now retired and living in from Shady Grove (Ky.) High 41.Those clubs won three Marion, Ky.,Towery is the father School in 1938. Southern Intercollegiate Athletic of four children, three of those The three Western varsity Association championships and Western alumni. 32 Western Kentucky University WKU Alumni Association “To Enhance and Strengthen National Board of Directors

Claire Arnold ‘85, ‘90 the Western Spirit” Louisville, KY Don Ball ‘68 Greetings from the Hill! It was great to see thousands of alumni Auburn,AL and friends in attendance at the Coming Home celebration on March Bill Bewley ’68,‘76 1, 2003. It is very apparent throughout our 70,000+ alumni base that Oakton,VA there is a renewed excitement about Western. From the capital con- Sandy Billingsley ‘86 Bowling Green, KY struction to the student recruitment to the fundraising success, alumni are show- Anthony Bowles ’83,‘84 ing their support and getting involved at WKU. Become part of the energy that Bowling Green, KY is permeating the Hill. And, if you haven’t see campus in a while, then I encour- Kevin Brooks ‘74 age you to come back for a visit. Bowling Green, KY There are also many alumni events planned across the country in the com- Wayne Bush ‘89 Bowling Green, KY ing months that will allow you to interact with other Western alumni and get Mike Byers ‘69 reconnected with the Hill. These events include social activities, Derby parties, Elizabethtown, KY student recruitment events, and so much more! I hope you’ll take a look at the To ny Cochran ‘73 Events Calendar and attend an event in your area. We look forward to your Atlanta, GA involvement! Always remember,“The Spirit Makes the Master”. Missie Hubbuch Cole ‘90 Nashville,TN Sincerely, Rosemary Crennel ‘69 North Attleboro, MA Thomas B. Ellis ‘63 Ft. Mitchell, KY Donald Smith (’94) Russell Faxon ‘74 Executive Director Bell Buckle,TN WKU Alumni Association Clarence Glover ‘71 Louisville, KY receive an addition $3 million in Janie Gregory ‘92 Legislative Update base funding and will claim $4.6 mil- Carmel, IN The 2003 General Assembly has lion in matching dollars from the Donna Harmon ‘82 Bowling Green, KY completed its work on the 2002- Bucks for Brains program. Brenda Bailey Little ‘79 2004 biennial budget and officially While this was far short of the Hartford, KY adjourned in late March.While high- $4.3 million WKU was hoping to Marc Lovell ‘88 er education was not spared from receive in 2003-04 based on the Bowling Green, KY original budget proposed in 2002, Dr. Jerry Martin ‘58 budget cuts in the current fiscal Bowling Green, KY year, both the House and Senate we are grateful to the Senate for Amber Mayfield confirmed their commitment to including increased funding for the (Student Representative) continue the progress made by institutions in its version of the Owensboro, KY higher education since the 1997 budget and to the House for sup- Brad Mutchler, Jr. ‘58 Paducah, KY reform effort by providing an $18.9 porting the increase.WKU contin- Bob Owsley BU ‘58 million increase in funds for univer- ues to respond to the challenges of Cecilia, KY sities in 2003-04.The budget also higher education reform.We are W. Leo Peckenpaugh ‘73,‘96 funds a third round of the Bucks for enrolling, retaining and graduating Henderson, KY Brains program and gives universi- more students then ever, and this Mary Jo Phillips ‘53 Nashville,TN ties the opportunity to borrow budget will allow us to keep our Hugh Ridenour ’66,‘96 money for infrastructure improve- commitment to Kentucky. Please Hanson, KY ments. express your thanks to your legisla- Diane Ritter ‘76 For Western this means a $1.4 tors for their support of higher Hastings on the Hudson, NY education and encourage them to David N. Roberts ‘79 million cut in state appropriations Owensboro, KY for the current year.The administra- keep higher education at the top of Jim Smith ‘70 tion has planned for a potential their priority list for the 2004-06 Nashville,TN budget reduction, and departments biennial budget. If you would like Brad Watson ‘73 on campus will not see cuts to their further information from WKU, Franklin,TN please contact us at Te rry Wilcutt ‘75 operating budgets to meet this obli- Houston,TX gation. In 2003-04,WKU will [email protected]. 33 Alumni Spring 2003 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

April Lexington, KY May 24, 2003 April 26, 2003 Greater Louisville Alumni Chapter Let’s take a trip Muhlenberg County Alumni Spring Day at the Races down memory lane to... Chapter Habitat for Humanity Churchill Downs Community Service Project Louisville, KY Central City, KY May 30-31, 2003 Alumni May Muhlenberg County Alumni May 3, 2003 Chapter Scholarship Fundraiser College Atlanta Derby Party Wal-Mart in Central City, KY Home of Gerald Fudge Remember those late night talks June with your college roommate? Dallas Chapter Derby Party June 4-6, 2003 Remember rushing back to your Lone Star Park Alumni College dorm before curfew? Remember Reservations due April 18 the feeling of leaving a class after June 4-6, 2003 North Carolina Derby Party acing a test? Have you ever want- Western Kentucky University 4:30 PM (EST) ed to relive those days again? Golden Anniversary Club Reunion Coach's Sports Bar and Grill Here’s your chance. 10403 Park Road Charlotte, NC June 6-7, 2003 RSVP by May 1, 2003 to Ken Business University Reunion Western Kentucky University Szymanski at 704-553-2831 or Alumni College June 6-7, 2003 email: [email protected] JUNE 4-6, 2003 Decades Reunion - 1960s Alumni College is a continuing Tampa Derby Party July education program for Western Home of Wayne and Laura Kentucky University alumni. July 12, 2003 Roemer Champ 2003 will be the inaugural year for Greater Louisville Alumni Chapter For more information, contact the program. The program gives Warren County Alumni Chapter Karen Matchus at 813-971-3433. alumni of Western an opportunity Barren County Alumni Chapter $15 entry fee to stay on campus while taking NIGHT AT THE BATS fun, educational classes. This Slugger Field May 15, 2003 year’s Alumni College will spend Louisville, KY Capital City and Central Kentucky one day on campus in the class- room and one day on a road trip Chapter July 25-26, 2003 to Mammoth Cave National Park! Lexington Legends Baseball Game College High Grand Gathering For more information, contact the WKU Alumni Association at Save the Date! 888-WKU-ALUM or e-mail [email protected]. Homecoming, November 1 WKU Football vs. Southern Illinois University

34 Western Kentucky University PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION Parents’ Association Update

• The Parents’ Association has more than 1000 members.

• The Parents’ Advisory Council meets on a quarterly basis.

• Each year money raised by the Parents’ Association goes to fund a Student-Directed Initiative to improve student life at Western Kentucky University.

• During the 2003-2004 school year the Parents’ Association will fund two separate projects. One is a video leadership library that will affect thousands of students. Another proj-

ect will be the revival of the Student Hagan-Booth Photo by Sheryl Escort Service on campus.

• For more information, join us on- line at www.wku.edu/StuAffairs/par- ents or call us at 270-745-5990. ✁ Yes, I/we want to join the WKU Parents’ Association Enclosed is a gift of $______to be designated for the Parents’Association and its projects. Payment Method: Check made payable to WKU Foundation Credit Card: Visa MC AMEX DISCOVER Card # ______Exp. Date______Parent(s) Name: ______SS# (for database ID only) ______Home Address: ______City, State, Zip: ______Home Phone ______Home Email ______Business Address: ______City, State, Zip: ______Business Phone ______Business Email ______Occupation ______Employer ______WKU Alumni? Yes No Graduation Year?______Student’s Name: ______SS# ______Classification Freshman Sophomore Junior Senior Please mail this form and your contribution to: Western Kentucky University Office of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving Attn: Parents’ Association 1 Big Red Way Bowling Green, KY 42101

35 Alumni Spring 2003 CHAPTER NEWS

The Society of African American Alumni conducted a WKU recruiting event at St. Stephen Baptist Church in Louisville, Ky. The Society was represented by its Executive Committee members, scholars, and Western Kentucky University staff members.

Western senior Josh Hawkins, Big Red, and Buddy the Bat at the Greater Louisville Alumni Chapter’s WKU Night at the Bats.

Greater Louisville Alumni Chapter President Kristen Miller (’97) and Tim Corrigan at the WKU Night at the Bats in Louisville, Ky.

Barry McIntosh, Joe Earl Campbell, Jim Scott, and Butch Rush at the Hilltopper Golf Scramble at the Golf Club of the Everglades in Naples, Fla. in February.

36 Western Kentucky University BEST KEPT SECRET Show your WKU Pride By Bob Edwards least. Some critics have compared it License plates featuring the WKU to something akin to Teletubbies or logo can be obtained through your Perhaps you have seen the new Wal-Mart. local county clerk’s office now, or license plate design for Kentucky. Even Gov. Paul Patton’s defense the next time your license plate is For those who have not, it can best of the design was less than a ring- due to be renewed.The license be described as a smiling-face sun ing endorsement,“They don’t put plate costs just $10 per year in rising over the hills of Kentucky Rembrandts on the back of cars.” addition to the regular registration with the slogan “Kentucky – It’s A simple solution to those who fees - $10 that will go into that Friendly” underneath. don’t care for the design is to Western’s general scholarship fund. The new design and slogan are opt for a specialty plate.The Show your pride for Western the result of marketing research Kentucky Transportation Cabinet with a little creative license – a that showed Kentucky and its resi- currently offers more than 40 WKU license plate for your car in dents are perceived as friendly, choices. Options range from one 2003. especially to travelers. By the end that commemorates the Horse of 2003, it is estimated that more Council to one for Purple Heart Editor’s Note: If you live outside the than 2 million motor vehicles will recipients. But, which one to Commonwealth of Kentucky and are serve as ambassadors for Kentucky choose? May I make a suggestion? interested in making WKU plates tourism. How about showing your pride in available in your state, let us know by Reaction to the design by Western Kentucky University and calling the WKU Alumni Association at Kentucky motorists has been con- at the same time contributing to its 1-888-WKU-ALUM. sistently underwhelming to say the general scholarship fund?

37 Alumni Spring 2003 Would You Like to Receive ALUMNI Online? The entire ALUMNI If you prefer to receive your magazine online magazine is now live online. Go to instead of via regular mail, please send an e- www.wku.edu. Click on Alumni/Giving. mail to [email protected] and simply Click on ALUMNI Magazine. note ”Online Magazine Option” in the subject There you‘ll find a complete version of the print- line. Then, we will remove your name from our ed piece you now hold in your hand – every arti- magazine mailing list. cle, every picture, every word. We’re pleased to be able to offer this service to you. If you have comments or suggestions regarding the site, please let us know. Enjoy! CLASS NOTES

1940s gallery free to the public by University of Mississippi in Oxford, appointment near Glendale, Ky., Miss. representing a worldwide collec- Robert A.Walters (‘41) of tion of his work as well as selected Karon Kay (Gary) Booth (‘68, Dahlgren,Va., is listed in the Who’s students from Touch of Success ’72) of Bowling Green, Ky., a retired Who in the World from 1999-2003. Seminars, which he founded in teacher who taught for 30 years in He was also listed in America’s 1978. The book is available through Butler County, Ky., joins the ranks Registry of Outstanding Professionals the Barnes & Noble web site, of combat novelists with the publi- 2003-2005. Amazon.com and Thomas’ own cation of her first book, COVER web site, http://www.touchofsuc- FIRE by Peach Blossom Ruric E.Wheeler (‘47) of cess.com. Publications. Birmingham,Ala., has recently pub- lished a new book, All Because of Ellen (Kiefer) Skomsky (‘68) of Polly. The book is inspirational, his- 1960s Louisville, Ky., just completed a torical fiction and a love story of Carlos B. two-year term as president of two teenagers during the Great Embry, Jr. (‘63) Habitat For Humanity of Metro Depression and World War II. The of Morgantown, Louisville and is currently serving book is available on the Barnes and Ky., was elected on the organization’s Board of Noble web site,Amazon.com, chris- 17th District Directors. tianbook.com and various other State bookstores. Representative 1970s 1950s in November’s General Election. He will represent Butler, Grayson, Doris (Weaver) Deuth (‘70,‘74) and western Hardin counties in of Louisville, Ky., has been named William Ed Worley (‘56) of Frankfort. This marked Embry’s the Kentucky Department of Morrow, Ga., was named to the fifth election to public office. Corrections Warden of the Year for 2002 Gilmer High School Athletic Earlier, he served three terms at 2002. Deuth has been warden of Hall of Fame. He was one of four Ohio County Judge Executive and the Kentucky Correctional inaugural inductees. one term as Mayor of the City of Institution for Women in Shelby Beaver Dam. He is retired from County since Dec. 1999 when Gov. Bill Thomas (‘58) of Glendale, Ky., the multi-state law firm of Hughes Paul Patton appointed her to the has just published his 27th book, a & Coleman, where he served as post. Deuth is a career corrections novel called The River Purple. It’s general manager. employee who has held several his first novel after 26 books with other positions with the DOC, various major New York publishers Dr. James D. Gilbert (‘64,‘68) of including deputy warden for securi- on nature and wildlife subjects. University, Miss., was promoted to ty at KCIW. She has just complet- Thomas is also director/founder of chair of Health, Exercise Science, ed a one-year appointment on the Oakbrook Farm Center for the and Recreation Management at Governor’s Task Force on the Arts with an open photography art 39 Alumni Spring 2003 CLASS NOTES Economic Status of Kentucky’s Women and served as a member of its Executive Committee. Robertsons Celebrate Golden Anniversary C. Joseph Former WKU Alumni Russell (‘73) of Association Executive Carmel, Ind., has Director Lee Robertson been appointed (‘50,‘57) and his wife, Joyce treasurer of the (‘65), celebrated their 50th Indianapolis Bar wedding anniversary on Foundation April 2, 2003. Board. Russell practices at the Congratulations to both of Indianapolis based law firm of Bose you from all of your McKinney & Evans LLP. Western family!

Noretta (Gentry) Baxter (‘75) of Alvaton, Ky., is employed by WKU in the Department of Physics manager of Tennessee Valley Randall E. Norris (‘78) of & Astronomy as an office associate. Authority‘s Gallatin Fossil Plant. Nicholasville, Ky., was recently She has worked for WKU for 15 appointed first assistant in the years. She is married to William E. Kathy L. Bunch (‘78,‘81) of Jessamine County Attorney‘s Baxter and they have one daughter, Glasgow, Ky., was recently named Office, where he has been a prose- Brittany Lynn Baxter, 16. the principal of Hardinsburg cutor since 1993. Norris has his Primary School in Hardinsburg, Ky. private law practice in Nicholasville, J. Frank Harmon (‘77) of Ky., and he has taught part-time in Barrington Hills, Ill., is the vice pres- John H. Grizzell (‘78) of St. Louis, the department of government at ident and general manager for Mo., is principal of Grizzell & Co., a Eastern Kentucky University since Cardinal Health‘s Pharmaceutical marketing communications firm. 1995. Division responsible for operations Prior to founding Grizzell & Co. in in Chicago, Ill., and Humaco, Puerto 1991, he had held positions at Nancy (Kesselring) Willenbrink Rico. Harmon and his wife, Jean internationally recognized firms. In (‘78) of Louisville, Ky., recently Ann (Blomquist) Harmon (‘79) have addition to his education at accepted an early retirement pack- two children, Leah 14 and Jeff 11. Western, he recently attained a age from BellSouth after 24 years master‘s degree at Webster of service. Nancy is looking for- Michael New University (‘02). ward to rejoining the work force (‘77) of South and using her WKU math degree. Burlington,Vt., Tom Kerr joined Saint (‘78,‘79) and 1980s Michael‘s Lisa College as direc- (Dowell) Phylis (Harrell) Newsom (‘80, tor of human Kerr (‘79) of ‘82) of Franklin,Tenn.,recently resources in July 2001, has been Cincinnati, joined Shirley Zeitlin & Company promoted to vice president for Ohio, took a New Year‘s family Realtors as affiliate broker in the human resources at the liberal arts vacation to Walt Disney World in Cool Springs,Tenn.,location. She residential Catholic college located Orlando, Fla. They have a son, Sam, and her husband, Mark, have three in Burlington,Vt. 14, who earned his Boy Scout Eagle sons, John Mark 9, Peter 5, and rank in November 2002. He is also Gabe 2. Dennis Ray Spencer (‘77) of an honors student in 8th grade. Gallatin,Tenn.,was recently pro- David Turner (‘80) of Grand moted to the position of plant Haven, Mich., is president of JOHN- 40 Western Kentucky University CLASS NOTES NY Advertising, Inc., an indoor Thomas Wayne Richards (‘82) Ky., married Pamela (Eastwood) advertising company specializing in of Bowing Green, Ky., married Fleming on Dec. 14, 2002. “bathroom billboards,” was elected Diane Alford Thomas on Dec. 6, as vice president of the Indoor 2002. Thomas is presently RTZ cir- Anne McKee (‘83) of Peoria,Az., Billboard Advertising Association culation manager of the Bowling was elected vice president/presi- for 2003. Green Daily News in Bowling dent elect of the North American Green, Ky. He also is a parks board Serials Interest Group (NASIG). Vicki Phillips (‘81,‘88) of commissioner with the Parks and This international non-profit organ- Lancaster, Pa., was appointed by Recreation Department in Bowling ization promotes communication Governor-Elect Rendall as Green, Ky. and sharing of ideas among all Secretary of Education for the state members along the serials informa- of Pennsylvania. Mary Dee Boemker (‘83) of tion chain. She will assume the Frankfort, Ky., is the field services presidency in June 2003. Mark Stuart Newsom (‘82) of director for Special Olympics Franklin,Tenn.,is the executive vice Kentucky. Rick president and chief marketing offi- Roudebush cer for DigiScript, Inc., a digital Tom Farmer (‘83) of West (‘83) of learning and training company, Warwick, R.I., recently started and Greenfield, Ind., recently recognized as one of the owns Desktop Prose,a freelance ran and complet- “Top 25 Emerging Companies” in advertising design, copywriting and ed the New York the Nashville market, by Nashville consulting business located in West City Marathon in Post Magazine, December 2002. Warwick, R.I. 5 hours and 34 minutes. Mark and his wife, Phylis, have three sons, John Mark 9, Peter 5, and Gabe 2. Gary Fleming (‘83) of Paducah,

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Mail form to: LAPEL PIN WKU Alumni Relations and Annual Giving 1 Big Red Way AFGHAN Bowling Green, KY 42101 Or call toll free 1-888-958-2586 41 Alumni Spring 2003 CLASS NOTES Jose Araque (‘84) of Louisville, Kentucky from Arizona and accept- ComeBacks Resale Boutique locat- Ky., customer service representa- ed a position with Jennie Stuart ed in Owensboro, Ky. She current- tive for Corhart Refractories, was Medical Center In Hopkinsville, Ky., ly serves on Girls, Inc. Board of recently selected to win the Saint- as the director of patient financial Trustees, the Owensboro-Daviess Gobain Corporation “Volunteer services. County Chamber of Commerce Recognition Award.” Board of Directors and RiverPark Chad (‘87) and Center‘s Board for Tomorrow‘s Rita (McIntosh) McCarty (‘85) Carla (‘88) Broadway Audience. of Fort Worth,Texas,married (Harris) Dennis McCarty June 24, 2000. Carlton of Kimberly (Sammons) Wissert They have a daughter, Sydney Faith, Louisville, Ky., are (‘92) of Nashville,Tenn.,was pro- who was born March 27, 2002. proud to moted to customer service manag- announce the er for Bank of America. She is Neika (Proffitt) Coughlin (‘86) birth of their second child, Harris married to Brien Wissert (‘93), of Nehawka, Neb., is the clinical Clay Carlton, born Oct. 14, 2002. who is a fleet manager for Shippers nurse specialist for Critical Care He weighed 7 pounds and 8 ounces Transport. They have two children, 1 and Cardiovascular Services at and was 21 ⁄2 inches long. He was Madison 5, and Alex 4. Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Neb. welcomed home by big sister, She received her MSN from Harper Claire, age 3. Russell Cummins (‘93) of Vanderbilt University. She has Louisville, Ky., and his wife,Valerie, worked as a staff nurse, manager Jennifer (Sapp) Wethington are proud to announce the birth of and educator. She is a (‘88) of Bowling a baby girl, Madison Jewell. She was Cardiovascular Lecturer having pre- Green, Ky., and born on Dec. 3, 2002, and weighed sented nationally on various cardio- her husband,Van, 9 pounds and 8 ounces. vascular and critical care topics. are the proud She is married to Barry Coughlin, a parents of their Mia health care representative for first child, Grace (Haselwood) Biovail Inc., and they have two Anne Dawson (‘93) of daughters, Kaitlin and Emily. Wethington. She was born on Nov. Lexington, Ky., 7, 2002. and her husband, Dan Hosek William, are the (‘86) of 1990s proud parents of Alexandria, their son, Landon Dawson. Landon Va., and his Russell B. is a future Hilltopper. wife, Cindy, Morgan (‘90) of are proud to Bowling Green, David Dotson announce the birth of their twins, Ky., was recently (‘93) and Sarah Emma and Alex, who were born on named a mem- (Cravens) Oct. 4, 2002. They also have a two- ber of the law Dotson (‘94, year-old son, Dean. firm Boult, ‘98) of Cummings, Conners & Berry, PLC. Goodlettsville, Karen (Kirsch) Krzmarzick Tenn., became (‘86) of Alexandria,Va., was recently Lisa Gayle the proud parents of Catherine named assistant director of Peercy (‘90) of Isabella Lindele Dotson on April 5, Education Programs at American Owensboro, Ky., 2002. Born March 14, 2002,“Bella” Society for Industrial Security was selected was a special gift from Bethany (ASIS) International in Alexandria,Va. 2002 Christian Services. They became a Entrepreneur of “Forever Family” on Dec. 12, 2002. Gary R. Brodarick (‘88) of the Year. Lisa is Hopkinsville, Ky., moved back to co-owner and operator of Great 42 Western Kentucky University CLASS NOTES Ken May (‘95,‘98) of Bowling Green, Ky., was recently named assistant principal at Bowling Green Junior High School. He taught busi- Future Hilltoppers show ness at Greenwood High School their spirit with a chillin for four years before accepting his Big Red! Logan (left) new position as assistant principal. and Lyn Dawsyn Steenbergen are the Dan Reed daughters of Krista (‘92) (‘95) of and Derron (‘93) Seattle, Steenbergen of Glasgow, Wash., is in Ky. his third year of Radiation Oncology residence at the University of Washington. He recently received the 2002 Stefanie the National Park Service in National Clinical Research Award (Keown) Washington D.C. She was promot- by the American Society of Popplewell ed to this position from Grand Therapeutic Radiology and (‘92) and Craig Teton National Park in December Oncology (ASTRO). Reed was also Popplewell 2001. named the 2002-2003 Seattle (‘91) of Marlton, Prostate Brachytherapy Fellowship N. J., are proud Michelle Program Coordinator by the to announce the birth of their first (Celsor) American Brachytherapy Society. child, Harper, born on July 25, 2002. Pedigo (‘94) of Austin, Ky., was Shannon (Akers) Seebert (‘95) June DeLoria Bell (‘93) of appointed as of Louisville, Ky., recently joined Owensboro, Ky., a registered nurse national director GENEX Services, Inc. as area sales and executive director of St. of affinity mar- manager for Kentucky. Joseph‘s Peace Mission for keting for MetLife Resources. Children, has been named the Heather (Suell) Stewart (‘95) of December recipient of the R.C. Paul Louisville, Ky., married Don Stewart Neblett, M.D. Service Award, pre- Fulcher on Jan. 11, 2002. Heather is the sented each month by the Citizens (‘95) and executive director of the Make-A- Health Care Advocates. Amy Wish Foundation of Kentucky, (Fagerlin) where they grant wishes to chil- Michael Settles (‘93) of Fulcher dren with life-threatening illnesses. Bardstown, Ky., was named the (‘94) of Madisonville, Ky., happily Associated Press‘ High School announce the birth of their son, Andrew D.Atherton (‘96) of Football Coach of the Year for Joseph Campbell Fulcher, on Nov. Greensboro, N.C., has joined the 2002. Settles is a teacher and foot- 17, 2002. Joey weighed 8 pounds law firm of Booth, Harrington, & 1 ball coach at Bullitt East High and 11 ounces and was 21 ⁄2 inches Johns L.L.P.as associate attorney. School in Mt.Washington, Ky. long. Paul is a case manager for the State of Kentucky Department of Samatha E.Whitaker (‘93) of Juvenile Justice. Amy is an exten- Oakton,Va., is a park ranger and sion associate at the University of education coordinator for White Kentucky Research and Extension House Liaison/President‘s Park for Center.

43 Alumni Spring 2003 CLASS NOTES Marietta ing from Western Kentucky Green Area Chamber of (Froggett) University in Dec. 2002. She is a Commerce. Belcher mathematics teacher at Bowling (‘96) of Green High School. Amanda Riley Borders (‘02) of Clarksville, Bowling Green, Ky., and her hus- Tenn., mar- Jared Riley (‘98) of Paducah, Ky., band, Michael, are the proud par- ried Benny Belcher (‘98) on July married Misty (Sutton) Riley on July ents of their first child, Michael 7, 2001. She is a color specialist 27, 2002. Edward Borders. He was born on with Premium Wear, Inc. in Oct. 27, 2002, weighed 9 pounds Clarksville,Tenn.Benny works for Sonja (McPherson) Lear (‘99) of and 3 ounces, and was 21 inches Dunlap Sunbrand International in Dunmor, Ky., and her husband, long. Hopkinsville, Ky. Jamie Lear, are the proud parents of their daughter, Emma Rose. Emma MaDonna (Ward) Brown (‘02) a Juliann (Glas) Cravens (‘96) of was bone June 6, 2002 at Baptist business owner in Hodgenville, Ky., Acworth, Ga., and Dan Cravens are Hospital in Nashville,Tenn. is married with three children, happy to announce their marriage recording a CD, and a director of a that occurred Aug. 17, 2002, on St. Michael A. Miller (‘99) of daycare center at her church. She Helenas Island, S.C. LaVergne,Tenn.,married Megan S. said that her degree has given her Somermeyer Miller on Dec. 7, the courage and confidence to Amanda (Hincheliff) Harrell 2002. expand her life in many different (‘96) of Hernando, Fla., would like directions. to thank WKU for helping her 2000s catch her dreams. Since she gradu- Heather (Schepers) Caudill ated, she married in 1999 and has a Angela (Clem) Webb (‘00) of (‘02) of Louisville, Ky., married daughter, Mandalynn Kay. Harrell Nashville,Tenn.,married Joseph T. Christopher Caudill on Nov. 29, works for the Citrus County Webb on Oct. 25, 2002. She is the 2002. Schools. convention and meetings manager for Tennessee Health Care Christy (Brady) Jennings (‘02) Sgt.August K. Nienaber (‘96) of Association and Joseph is the direc- of Bowling Green, Ky., and her hus- Tucker, Ga., was recently called to tor of operations for the American band, Michael, are the proud par- active duty in support of Operation Kidney Stone Management. ents of their daughter, Caitlyn Leigh Enduring Freedom while assigned Jennings. She was born on August 3 to the Marine Corps Reserves Cali (Koemer) Morrison (‘01) of 9, 2002, weighed 8 ⁄4 pounds and 1 Company A, 8th Tank Battalion, Bozeman, Mont., recently accepted ounces, and was 20 ⁄2 inches long. home based in Fort Knox, Ky. the position of greek coordinator with Montana State University. Trenton Holt Smith (‘96) of Newburg, Ore., recently accepted David L.Thoma (‘01) of the position as assistant professor Russellville, Ky., was recently called of biology at George Fox to active duty in support of University in Newburg, Ore. Operation Enduring Freedom while assigned to the Marine Corps Cindy (Chiappetta) Barnett Reserve‘s Company A, 8th Tank (‘98) of Fishers, Ind., married Battalion, home based in Fort Michael Barnett on Oct. 19, 2002 in Knox, Ky. Carmel, Ind. Dana Warder (‘01) of Bowling Susan (King) May (‘98,‘02) of Green, Ky., recently accepted the Bowling Green, Ky., completed her position of partnership develop- master‘s degree in school counsel- ment coordinator at the Bowling 44 Western Kentucky University CLASS NOTES In Memoriam

In Memory, we pay tribute to our alumni and friends who have passed away during the past year. Our thoughts are with the friends and family.

Mr.Thad S.Abell ‘36 Mr. Prentiss W. Foreman ‘41 Mr. Stiles A. Miller

Mr. Neal D.Adams ‘85 Dr. Prentice L. Gott ‘51 Ms. Linda Stewart Monson ‘72

Mr. Jan Niel Akers ‘71 Mr. Gerald Thomas Guinn Mr.William M. Oates ‘38

Mr. Noble Allen ‘46,‘54 Ms. Lena R. Hardcastle Ms. Marian B. Phillips ‘62

Ms.Anna Hale Aspley ‘46 Mr. James F. Harvey, Jr.‘40 Mr. Roy C. Phillips, Sr.‘35,‘47

Ms. Claire Bryant Barr ‘45 Mr.Thomas Meade Harwell Ms. Jo Ann Price ‘65,‘69

Mr. Jerry A. Bean Ms. Earnestine Hatcher Mr. Jimmy W. Ragan

Mr. J.C. Blancett ‘49 Mr. Franklin P.Hayes Ms. Fern Cole Morris Geer Renfro ‘55

Ms. Ruth T. Boswell ‘38,‘58 Ms. Mary Sue Houston ‘84 Ms. Lela Richardson

Mr. Daniel C. Bratcher ‘02 Ms. Janis Kay Jenkins ‘73 Ms. Leta Belk Richardson ‘69,‘76

Ms.Almeda Haynes Brizendine ‘43 Mr. George B. Jones ‘52 Ms. Edith L. Riddle

Ms. Lila M. Buchanan Ms. Dorotha L. Keown Dr. Richard Salisbury

Ms.Anita F. Campbell ‘80 Mr.Thomas Daniel King ‘57,‘64 Ms. Louise G. Scott

Mr. Joseph C. Cantrell ‘38 Ms. Elizabeth A. Larmon ‘33 Mr. James D. Shanahan

Ms. Georgia L. Cargile ‘23,‘24 Mr. Robert E. Layman ‘39 Ms. Dorothy L. Shelton ‘51

Ms. Ruth Carr ‘42 Ms. Myra Logsdon ‘61,‘62 Ms. Katie Simon

Ms. Margaret Tatum Clark Mr. Charles W. Long Mr. Eulice L. Smith

Mr. Jeff R. Coffey ‘86 Ms. Ruth Morris (‘32) Mr. Joseph Anthony Spugnardi, Jr.‘62

Mr. Mark Price Critchfield ‘93 Ms. Lacey McCandless Mr. F.W.“Steve” Stephens ‘39

Mr. Robert Curry ‘49 Ms. Mary Ann McCelvey ‘81 Ms.Ashley Stratton

Ms. Regina A. DeRossette Mr. James C. McClellan, Jr.‘69 Ms. Gladys N.Truitt

Ms. Eleanor L. Douglas ‘36 Ms. Mary Hampton McCracken ‘73 Mr. Brian J.Walker

Mr.Willie L. Draper Ms. Elizabeth W. Meredith Dr. F. Ben Wright

Ms. Georgia Eadens Reid Miller, infant son of Dale (‘90)

Mr. Darrell Florence and Carol (Speakman) (‘90,‘91) Miller

45 Alumni Spring 2003 CLASS NOTES Fellow Alums Receive Honors in Education By Cynthia Houston WKU College of Education and Behavioral Sciences

October 30 was a proud day in Frankfort for Western Kentucky University and the family and friends of two alumni from the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. In an awards ceremony hosted by Gov. Paul Patton, Education Commissioner Gene Wilhoit, and Marlene Helm, Secretary of the Education,Arts and Humanities Cabinet, Patrice Photo by Rick McComb McCrary, a Cumberland Trace Elementary School teacher from Kentucky Teacher of the Year, Patrice McCrary, evaluates a student’s counting skills. Bowling Green, was named both Award. new National Board Certified 2003 Elementary School Teacher of The common threads that bind Te acher. She continues to be the Year and 2003 Kentucky these award-winning teachers are involved in the WKU teacher edu- Te acher of the Year. On the same their love for the profession and cation program as a mentor day, Patrick Black, a T.K. Stone their boundless energy in the class- teacher for Elementary Education Middle School teacher from room. Both Black and McCrary students and as a team member in Elizabethtown, received the 2003 exude an enthusiasm for teaching. the Kentucky Teacher Internship Middle School Teacher of the Year McCrary says that the most mean- Program.As a lifelong Hilltopper, ingful aspect of teaching is making McCrary says she will forever feel a difference.“I relish the excite- the “spirit” of WKU.“If I step into ment I see in the eyes of students a classroom without knowing what as they make a learning connec- EVERY student knows and needs tion. I count myself fortunate to to know, then I have fallen short of love what I do, and get to do what my goal.WKU helped me see that I I love.” In a recent interview don’t teach school, I teach stu- with the Hardin County News dents.” Enterprise Black expressed his feel- The Teacher Achievement ings about receiving the honor.“It’s Awards, sponsored by Ashland Inc. something I’m proud of —to have and the Kentucky Department of worked hard in my profession and Education, are the highest honors be recognized. It’s great that I can given to teachers in the state.To proceed in a job that I love, feed win, finalists are selected from a my family and have a great feeling slate of 24 candidates based on the of worth at the same time.” quality of their applications, profes- Black recently received the sional accomplishments, community

Patrick Black, 2003 Kentucky Middle School WHAS-TV/PNC Bank ExCel involvement, personal interviews, Teacher of the Year, with his wife Kim, son Ian Award for Elizabethtown and classroom visits. and daughter Rebecca. Independent Schools. McCrary is a 46 Western Kentucky University CLASS NOTES

Look for the Bracket Hill logo and the opportunity to partici- pate in the Western Kentucky University Annual Fund.

You can help your “Team” (major, class year, department, alumni chapter) advance in the “Field of 65.” Support your Team. Support Western. Participate today!

www.wku.edu/Alumni or 1-888-WKU-ALUM

47 Alumni Spring 2003 COMMENTARY The Halo Effect

Western Kentucky University’s victo- to graduate from high school, a steady State University see a overall rise in ry in the Division 1-AA football cham- increase from the 2.48 million who donations as a result of its recent pionship game was the culmination of graduated 10 years ago. national championship in football? “Just hard work, perseverance, and athletic A third reason is the economy. because you’re winning, people don’t excellence. But was it more than that? Traditionally, enrollments at universities take it on themselves to write us The game, telecast on ESPN2, and community colleges spike upwards checks,’’ said Tom Hof,OSU’s associate reached 806,688 households or in times of a poor economy. More athletic director for development and 1,036,708 individual viewers across the working adults return to college to marketing.“But it does create a won- nation. While this national focus is usu- upgrade their skills and make them- derful climate when we go out to ask.” ally a one-time opportunity, what bene- selves more marketable. Regardless of whether officials agree fits, if any, does Western Kentucky But can a university’s increase in if there is any correlation between ath- University receive from its time in the enrollment or donations be attributed letic success and increased enrollment spotlight? to a successful athletic program or the and contributions, you cannot deny the In a 1994 nationally broadcast foot- “Flutie Factor”? increased awareness outside your tradi- ball game, then senior Boston College When the Kent State University tional recruitment area brought about quarterback Doug Flutie, with time men’s basketball team made it to the by added exposure a high profile, suc- expiring, heaved a desperation pass as Elite Eight in the NCAA playoffs last cessful athletic program can bring. So- far as he could. The “Hail Mary” touch- spring, people were talking about how called small schools like Gonzaga and down pass upset the Miami University the national attention would generate a Xavier of Ohio have raised their name Hurricanes and launched Flutie to the boost in enrollment and donations. But recognition tremendously by consis- Heisman Award. To this day, that play it’s hard to say whether there was any tently making it to the NCAA Men’s has been replayed countless times and connection, university officials say, Basketball Tournament. is considered one of the most dramatic because the school was already in the “I know it sounds silly, but the TV moments in collegiate sports. Over the midst of an alumni fund-raising effort, exposure, the excitement, the thought next few years, Boston College saw a and enrollment was already up by the that `I can be at a school that’s win- 33 percent increase in student applica- time the school sent its team to the ning.’ does make a difference.” says tions. tournament. Jacqueline King, director of policy analy- At the University of Connecticut, in “It’s very hard to directly track the sis for the American Council on a five-year period in the late 1990s, economic impact from a championship Education. during a string of men and women’s season,” said Kent State University Western Kentucky University has championship basketball teams, dona- President Carol Cartwright. “There is enjoyed tremendous enrollment growth tions rose from $6 million to $20 mil- some national research that concludes and financial support over the past five lion. Campus tours for prospective that the ‘Flutie Factor’ is vastly overrat- years. How much of that increase in students rose 33 percent and applica- ed in terms of increased (enrollment) either is the result of athletic success tions also climbed by double digits. applications.” over that time period is debatable. Is it a coincidence that enrollments Likewise, officials at Mount Union Like Kent State University,Western has and donations at those specific univer- College in Alliance, OH say they don’t been very active with a capital cam- sities rose during a period of athletic see a direct connection.The college’s paign and has positioned itself as a uni- success? Maybe, maybe not. football team has won six national versity of choice. But, aside from more Certainly, many factors figure into a championships in NCAA Division III. WKU apparel being sold and worn, certain university’s increased enroll- “Coming off years we didn’t win a increased alumni pride, and on-campus ment or financial contributions. national championship versus years we and community celebrations, the “halo” Universities that are able to boast of have, I don’t think you see a correlation effect from a suc- outstanding academic offerings, excel- in alumni contributions,” said Harry cessful athletic lent facilities and physical plant, favor- Paidas, vice president of public affairs program creates a able geographic locations, and rosy and marketing. However, since Mount perception that career opportunities after graduation Union first went into the playoffs in the university is are positioned to be most competitive. 1985, enrollment has more than dou- successful in other Another reason for enrollment bled, from 1,000 to 2,300.A lot of that areas as well. A increases is the children of baby probably was because of national pub- perception in this - Bob Edwards serves boomers creating a population bulge a licity the school gained from its football case, that is true. as WKU’s assistant generation after their parents did. This championships, conceded Paidas. vice president of year, 2.85 million students are expected Will a large school like The Ohio university relations 48 Western Kentucky University